LD 4757 
.5 

1850 
Dopy 1 



BBM 



DELIVERED AT 



THE INAUGURATION 



HON. THEODORB FREIINCnUTSEN, IL. D., 

AS PRESIDENT^ ELECT, OF RUTGERS COLLEGE, N. BRUNSWICK, 
JULY 24TH, 1850. 

\ BY THE 

Hon. a. Br\[YN HASBROUCK, LL. D., 

LATE PRESENT OF RUTGERS COLLEGE. 

His Ex. DANIEL HAINES, 

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY. 

Rev. JAMES SPENCER CANNON, D. D., 

PROFESSOR OF METAPHYSICS, ETC.. / 

AND THE 

Hon. THEODORE FRELINGHUYSEN, LL. D., 

PRESIDENT OF THE college:" ' " 



[ PUBLISHED BY ORDER OF THE TRUSTEES.] 



5 l<eb)^aScunstoicfe, N. S.: 
PRESS OF J. TERHUNE & SON. 
MDCCCL. 



ADDRESSES &c. 



AT 



THE INAUGURATION 



HON. THEODORE FRE LIN GHU YSE N, 



PRESIDENT OF RUTGERS COLLEGE 



*' NEW BRUNSWICK, 



ANNUAL COMMENCEMENT, 



t.Ly^ 



JULY 1850. 



v^^K 



[ PUBLISHED BY ORDER OF THE TRUSTEES.] -v? 



PRESS OF J. TERHUNE & SON. 
MDCCCL. 



i-u 






50 



Entered according .to Act of Congress, in tlie year 1850, by 

J. TERHUNE & SON, 

In the Clerk's Office of the U. S. Court, for the District of the 

State of New Jersey, 



INAUGURATION 

OF THEODORE FRELINGHUYSEN, LL.D. AS PRESIDENT OF RUTGERS 
COLLEGE. 

The Annual Commencement of Rutgers College in New Jersey, took place a t 
New Brunswick on Wednesday 24th day of July, 1850. Hon. A. Bruyn 
Hasbkouck, who had for ten years presided over the Institution with great 
acceptance, and at a late meeting of the Trustees had resigned the office of 
President, occupied for the last time, the honorable station from which he was 
about retiring ; at the close of the exercises, after conferring the usual degrees, 
he rose, and took leave of the Trustees and Students, in the following im- 
pressive Address. 

Mh. President, and Gentlemen of the Board of 

Trustees : 

In rising to confer the Degrees bestowed by you on the Class 
now before you, I cannot but be reminded, that it is the last official 
act as President of the College, which I shall be called upon to 
discharge. I have already on a former occasion, expressed to 
you, in terms however inadequate, my deep sense of obligation 
for your ready co-operation in all the duties devolved upon me as 
the head of your Institution. But now, when the final parting 
has at length come, I trust I may be indulged in a renewal of 
thanks for courtesy which has known no intermission, — for kind- 
ness which has been as ready to cover m}^ deficiencies as to an- 
ticipate my wishes. It is now within a few days, ten years since, 
in this very place, I was inducted into office, with ceremonies 
similar to those that await my successor this afternoon. I well 
remember the impressive words that were then spoken by my 
venerated predecessor; and I remember equally well, how the 
sentiment sprang to my heart in the remarks I was then called 
upon to make, that I should indeed be happy, if at the end of my 



presidential term, 1 could like him, look back upon the past, and say, 
" hitherto hath the Lord helped me.'' It is a long portion of one's 
life to review ; but most signally has the intercessory prayer of 
that excellent man been answered. For in all my intercourse 
with you, Gentlemen, with my esteemed friends and associates of 
the Faculty, and with your College, have I enjoyed as much com- 
fort as the infirmity of our nature will allow. I leave you now, 
Gentlemen, with every sentiment of respect and gratitude ; with 
a just appreciation founded upon personal observation, of your 
fidelity to your trust, — of your watchfulness over the interests of 
the College. Allow me to add, that it is to me a great personal 
gratification, that I leave you with high hopes of the future that 
is to follow upon my retirement, — in the introduction to the ofFice 
I now restore to your hands, of one, who to long experience in the 
particular duties of the station, has the superadded sanction of a 
name revered throughout this whole community, and identified 
every where by high official relations and personal connection 
with the best and only conservative and permanent interests of our 
race. My heart's desire, Gentlemen, is, that your work and his 
work may be prospered by the Lord to the advancement of His 
Glory and to the welfare of your Institution. 

Nor, Young Gentlemen, can I turn to you and your associates 
in the College, without yielding for a moment to the natural im- 
pulses of the occasion. I have already alluded in your hearing 
to the enjoyment which has been vouchsafed me during my pres- 
idency. It is in a great measure owing to your kind and respect- 
ful deportment, to your good conduct and that of your predecessors, 
that a station which may be made and which sometimes is made, 
irksome above most others, has been to me so pleasurable and 
gratifying. It is not probable, in the course of nature, that we 
shall all meet again in this world ; and I count it not one of the 
least mercies of a kind Providence, that I can now, as I trust you 
can, look back upon all our past intercourse, without one unwel- 
come emotion. The future, covered with clouds and darkness, 
lies before us, all unknown ; but it is delightful to think, that each 
can say of the other, in reference to the connexion which is now 
severed, hie olim meminisse juvahit. The occasion might justify 



6 

extended remark, both to those of you who are now to leave the 
Collefre and to those who are to remain. But I liave thought it 
would be most consistent with all the circumstances of the case, 
with reference to what has already been done, and to what remains 
to be done at this meeting and in the afternoon, that I should 
content myself with the simple prayer, which indeed includes all 
that I can wish for you, both for time and eternity, that the 
Lord may lift upon each of you the light of His countenance and 
give you peace. In view, then, of the expected accession to office 
this afternoon and of my own retirement from it now, I take leave 
of you. My Young Friends, in the significant terms of the well 
known salutation, — Hail and Farewell. 

In the afternoon, at 4 o'clock, a procession was formed at the College Green, 
which proceeded to the First Dutch Church to witness the Inauguration of the 
President elect, Hon. Theodore Frelikghuysen. The house was densely- 
crowded in every part with a highly respectable audience, from all parts of the 
country. After an Invocation to the Throne of Grace by the Rev. Dr. How, 
His Excellency, Daniel Haines, Governor of the State, in behalf of the 
Trustees, addressed the Students and the Public as follows. 

It has become my duty, on behalf of the Board of Trustees of 
Rutgers College to present to you, its President elect, Mr. Theo- 
dore Frelinghuysen. 

This, to me a most pleasant duty, is rendered the more grateful, 
by the conviction that you, my fellow citizens of New Jersey, will 
unite with me, in bidding a most cordial welcome to his native 
State — to this, her much esteemed and truly worthy son. 

You, who have so long known him, as the exemplary citizen, — 
the eminent jurist — the eloquent orator, and above all, as the 
christian gentleman, can appreciate his worth and will rejoice in 
his return. You who are so deeply interested in the welfare of 
the State, and are persuaded that its prosperity can be in no wise 
better promoted than by the proper education of its youth, its hope 
and its strength, must approve the choice thus made by the guar- 
dians of this Institution. 

You, gentlemen. Alumni, whose ardent and enduring affection 
for Alma Mater prompts you to look with solicitude to every meas- 
ure that may tend to promote her happiness, or to extend her 



fame, will hail with joy the hour, when this much honored name 
was inscribed upon the roll of her councillors. For in that name 
you have the promise of extended usefulness — the hope of in- 
creased success. 

And how, my young friends, under-graduates of the College, 
will you regard him, who for a time is to be the guardian and 
guide of your youth ? 

Speaking from my own feelings and experience in days which 
are passed, I confidently affirm, that you may esteem him not 
merely as your preceptor, but as your exemplar, and in the truest 
and largest sense, your benefactor and friend ; one who, while he 
labors to cultivate your mind, will seek to improve your heart ; 
who, while he assists you in the ascent of the hill of science, will 
endeavor to direct your steps in the way of righteousness and 
truth. Allow me to ask for him your entire confidence and your 
free and cheerful acquiesence in all that he shall require of you ; 
and that you seek not only to secure but to merit his approbation, 
as, next to an approving conscience, your highest reward. 

Gentlemen of the Faculty ; you need from us, no commendation 
of him who is now to become one of your number, your president 
and head. He is well known to you all. Your "discernment as 
men, your experience as educators enable you to recognize in 
him, all those high qualities so requisite to that important and dis- 
tinguished relation. And v/e feel assured, that you wdll cordially 
co-operate with him in the great object of his mission, the increase 
and diffusion of Knowledge, and the intellectual and moral culture 
of ingenuous youth. 

We trust that under such auspices, this ancient and de-arly 
cherished Institution will not recede from the high position it has 
hitherto attained, but will continue to advance in the favor of an 
enlightened public, and that it will receive, as it truly deserves, 
the confidence of all ; and prove indeed to be a fountain of rich 
blcssin^rs to the world. 



Rev. Dr. James S. Cannon, one of the Professors of the College, at the request 
of the Trustees, then addressed the President elect, as follows : 

Mr, President elect, Sir, 

I have been appointed by the Board of Trustees of Rutgers 
College, because I am the oldest member of that Board, to address 
a few remarks to you on this interesting occasion. 

The design of this addi'ess is not to instruct you in relation 
either to the duties, or the difficulties, or the resyonsihilities of that 
office, into which you are now being inducted : — but to express 
publicly, and in this manner, the unanimity of voices, in selecting 
you on the retirement of the late active and beloved President of 
this College to be his successor in office : and the general joy felt, 
that you complied so early with the call of the Board and are ready 
to give your best efforts, for the promotion of the Institution under 
their care ! 

The joy which is expressed, by the friends of education and of 
Rutgers College, cannot be a matter of surprise to any ! For you 
Sir, are not a stranger to us : not one to be received on the recom- 
mendation of others ! Your course, from early professional life 
lies open before us, and is distinguished by tliose lights which 
emanate, from superior intellectual attainments, blended with the 
attrihutes of the Christian : from services, rendered in high stations 
to your country, — supported by dignity of moral character and 
the display of those social virtues, which in a civilized community^ 
never fail to endear a human being to his fellow men ! 

Retired from the Forum and the Senate, you have chosen, Sir 
to devote yourself during some years past, to the noble employ- 
ment of superintending the education of our American sons in the 
branches of Literature and Science ! This is we'll ; for it is an em- 
■ployment, in which the greatest of men through centuries past, have 
expended their mature years : an employment moreover, which, is 
inseparably connected, with the hest interests of civil society — 
with the progress of Christianity and consequently with the pre- 
servation and prosperity of the Church of the Redeemer in this land. 

Where ignorance enchains human minds, Fanaticism may easily 
tight up, her destructive jires, to consume, whatever opposes, her 
visions and extravagant claims to high inspirations; but pure 



8 

Christianity, cannot there utter her heavenly lessons, nor shed down 
her benign influence ! So also it is true that wherever letters are 
neglected — wherever schools are discouraged — or, even, where 
colleges are instituted, solely for the benefit of the great and 
princely, and lords of broad lands, as was the Aulic School in 
France, — civil liberty cannot exhibit her fair countenance — nor 
can free institutions, which elevate man and unfold his powers 
exist and flourish ! Knowledge is power because it is light : while 
it developes the duties of men in the social state, it defends their 
rights, better than military force : and Christianity we know is 
light from above and rejoices 

" in the matchless light 

Of that triumphant intellect, which grasps. 

An immortality of bliss, and fears. 

No mortal agony, when death is heaven ! 

Our ancestors of the great Protestant church in Europe, I need not 
tell you Sir, were deeply impressed with this fact ! The emigrants 
from the Netherlands made up principally of republican Flemings 
and of the persecuted Hugenots, mixed up with the many Scotch 
families, and whose descendents in the states of New York and 
New Jersey constitute the body of our religious denomination, 
came from a land of schools — colleges and universities : a land 
where Leyden in all her fame, where Grouingen, Utretcht, 
Franeker exhibited, their academic halls, filled with students from 
various countries : a land pre-eminent not only in industry and in 
the arts — but in the toleration of religious creeds and various 
modes of worship : a land too, which gave birth to the famous 
William Prince of Orange and Count de Nassau — of whom 
Addison in one of his poems, sang, 

** His conquests, freedom to the world afford. 

And nations bless the labours of his sword." 

Now the emigrants from that country brought with them to 
these western shores, abundant documents of their fatherland : the 
strongest attachment to free institutions, so as to be able to teach 
their eastern neighbors some of the first principles of civil freedom: 
— an educated and enlightened ministry : — schoolmasters and 
schools : — and together with the precious hihle, books on an in- 
finite variety of subjects, not collected into one great library, from 



which the many could derive little benefit, but made the property 
of the merchant — the mechanic and the farmer: — books in num- 
ber and quantity so great as to have justly awakened the astonish- 
ment of those who looked into their early domestic establishments. 
Such a people, aware of the importance of intellectual cultivation, 
and intent upon securing a well educated ministry, could not amid 
the revolutions of States and the interruptions of commerce, depend 
upon supplies from the old continent! Besides a memorable change 
occurred in the civil government of the province of New Amster- 
dam : Brittain added that province to her other colonies here ! 
New laws were enacted under the new masters : and the English 
language became of course, the language of the courts of Justice — 
of the halls of Legislation — of the marts of commerce and of the 
courtesies of social intercourse. This event operated directly, to 
retard the progress of those who spoke the Dutch language, in 
creating those institutions, which nurture the human mind in the 
liberal arts ! — Its influence was deeply felt. It brought the reform- 
ed church — her ministers and people, into that transition state, in 
acquiring a new language for all uses, which placed them behind 
other portions of the American family in their march towards in- 
tellectual improvements of the higher grades ! It subjected them, 
to difficulties, which obstructed for a long time, the developement 
of the spirit and character, properly belonging to a population and 
church, never ashamed of their European origin — and not inferior 
to any people in this land, in their attachment to the cardinal 
doctrines of the reformation, and to the fundamental principles of 
civil freedom, and representative government. 

Accordingly, so soon as circumstances promised success, appli- 
cation was made, to the existing authority for the establishment of 
a College in New Jersey, in connexion with the reformed church — 
her ministry and people. These efforts gave existence to Queen's 
College, now sustained under another name ! Her past history it 
is not my purpose to narrate ! Yet, I cannot forbear recalling at 
this moment, the deep injuries which she received in her infancy, 
from the war of the revolution — from the discouragements which 
originated in the distractions and unsettled and impoverished con- 
dition of the whole country, and especially from the death of tlie 

learned and pious Dr. Hardenbergh ! This eminent servant of 
2 



10 

God whose ministry, in various places, had been attended with 
remarkable effusions of the Holy Spirit, — and whose labors in 
this Institution were aided by those distinguished classical scholars, 
Frederick Frelinghuysen and Andrew Kirkpatrick, late Chief 
Justice of this State, — was like the celebrated Withe rspoon, a 
strenuous abettor of the American cause, " in those days which tried 
men's souls !" — His deep concern for his country's Independence, 
united with his devouring anxieties for the prosperity of the Institu- 
tion, under his care, preyed upon his mortal frame and brought him 
quite early to his grave !-— But he died in faith, 

" his eye bright with hope 

Flashing its birthright radiance unto heaven. 
Drinking revealments of God's paradise!" 

On the death of the first president, the exercises of the College 
were soon suspended ! But her recuperative powers were not en- 
tirely destroyed — the vital principle was still in action ! Hence 
through the exertions of friends and the liberality of those who 
devise liberal things, she revived to acquire new resources and 
new strength, to fulfill the design for which she was early 
cherished by her many friends. In her service a Livingston, 
whose fame was in all the churches — a judicious Condit — 
a Schureman in all his loveliness — a prompt and energetic 
WoodhuU — an untiring De Witt, exerted their powers. These 
eminent servants of God sleep in their graves hard by — but 
" their deathless spirits live 
In the high thoughts, of many pious hearts." 

And now, you honored Sir, are called in providence to be their 
successor, in the presidency of our Institution. Your hope we 
know is in God : and our trust also is in God. Into this ofHce 
with all its relations and responsibilities, you have no doubt 
entered, with various solicitudes clustering around your heart. 
Those solicitudes rush into the future : but the future no human 
eye can penetrate : yet, of one thing we rejoice to give you every 
assurance : Into the presidency of this College you pass, support- 
ed by the prayers and the high regards of all who know you : 
aided by the hearty co-operation of the Trustees and the Professors, 
and exempted from many embarrassments which some of the early 
presidents of the College experienced* For her resources and 



11 

strength are now greater, than they ever before were. The min- 
istry of the Reformed Church, are uniting their voices and coun- 
sels, and energies in your support, and in favor of an institution, 
the importance and value of which to them and to society, are as 
years roll by, more clearly perceived. — The sons of Rutgers are 
increasing in number — fondly cherishing their Alma Mater, while 
they are themselves filling important stations in Society ! On this 
stage, their faces may be seen bi'ightening with new hopes, for 
their hearts beat with stronger pulsations of joy, on occasion of 
your inauguration into the Presidency. One fact is certain : for 
the evidences of it, obtrude themselves upon the eyes of all M^ho 
know the temper and habits of the descendants of the Flemings 
and Huguenots in this country. The noble spirit of perseverance 
in a good cause, and good work distinguishes them as a people, 
and imparts to their religious attachments and civil pursuits 
without impairing their christian charity for others — without nar- 
rowing their souls into bigotry in one age, and into the next, 
expanding them for the reception of every new impulse and foolish 
notion of the day, more steadfastness than even the sons of Con- 
necticut and Pilgrims of Massachusetts, have hitherto exhibited. 
Ah! it is the spirit of tlieir Fatherland: it prompts them to climb 
the cliffs of discouragements — to stem the strong current of adverse 
circumstances — and if the conflict require it, " to die in the last 
ditch !" 

You Sir, have much knowledge of this fact : and may therefore 
feel all the encouragements which it imparts in the new relations, 
you have this day formed. Difficulties may lie in your way — 
but aids will not be withheld. The pupils under your care, may 
not immediately from their number, crowd your halls : but that 
number will be gradually augmented. The College shall live — 
the College shall stand : and under Divine blessing wend her way 
to distinction and fame. This may be considered the prophecy of 
an old man — of uninspired lips : be it so. Yet I must conclude 
this address with one remark, which is not prophecy, but an ob- 
vious fact — all, Plon. Sir, who compose this large, most respect- 
able assembly — the young men and maidens — the polished matrons 
and educated gentlemen here, unite with me heartily in bidding 
you God's speed. — The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 



ADDRESS 

OF THE HON. THEODORE FRELINGHUYSEN, PRESIDENT ELECT, OF THE 

COLLEGE. 

Mr. Frelinghuysen then arose, and addressed the audience as follows: 

Education, in the higher departments of knowledge, has at all 
times found favor, with a few influential and steadfast friends. In 
the early periods of our history, this great interest encountered 
serious prejudices and many difficulties. But we have good 
reason to rejoice at the advancement made, towards a correct and 
liberal public sentiment. 

All christian denominations now hold in prevailing conviction, 
the necessity, of the College as well as the Seminary, that their 
youth may be trained up, to the high responsibilities and sacred 
duties of professional and christian men. 

We have at last come to the full acknowledgement of what, it 
is marvellous, we were so slow to learn, that as God has endowed 
man with immortal faculties, capable of indefinite improvement, 
they are bound, as they may be able to cultivate them, and the 
more so, because in their improvement, fuller and clearer discov- 
eries are made of truth and its claims, and of duty and its obliga- 
tion. 

And to encourage the pursuit of knowledge, as well as enforce 
the injunction, all things around and above us, have been arranged 
by our wise and gracious Creator, to open the way and furnish 
the means, for exercising the powers of the understanding and the 
affections of the heart. 

And moreover the prevailing temper of the times in which we 
live, imparts peculiar interest to the subject. There is a fearful 
activity in the human mind, urging it on, with an inflamed im- 
pulse — there is a feverish excitability — that sometimes threatens, 
like a sudden flood, to bear down all the landmarks of truth and 
order. We can readily find the manifestations of this temper, in 
all the schemes of enterprise that are so often presenting them- 



13 

selves to the notice and favor of the community— and unless they 
promise prompt and large results, they can hardly bring the public 
mind to a pause. There must be fruit, quick, visible and decisive, 
or the attention will not be drawn nor held, to any practicable 
purpose. As often happens, the period is distinguished also, by a 
restless desire of change. Dissatisfied with old forms and estab- 
lished principles, the mind would strike into some untried path — 
some tempting short-cut of vain pretension — that feeds the thirst 
after novelty. True, we would not, and indeed we could not 
check this disposition. It belongs to the age — as the certain re- 
sult of known and far reaching causes. — But still there is season- 
able and allotted service for us all. 

In the midst of such perilous elements, it behoves the colleges 
to stand in their lot, and improve their station and influence, for 
the needed discipline, reflection and sobriety — that our youth may 
be duly prepared to meet the duties and encounter the activities 
of a period that has perhaps never had its parallel. 

The mind must be subdued to self control — and instructed in 
the knowledge of its powers — its capacities and its infirmities. 
It should pass through the healthful discipline, of mental and moral 
culture — and regular, systematic and severe study. 

The usual range of a collegiate education, embraces the depart- 
ments of literature and science that by the matured wisdom of 
many years and much experience, is considered best adapted to 
the wants of those, who are to enjoy the benefits; and here, at the 
threshold, we are sometimes met by an objection that is urged 
against the Classical branches of the College and Academy; 
denounced as a waste of time and energies upon dead languages 
as they are termed, and which, because they do not conduct the 
intercourse and the business of men, are regarded as almost worth- 
less. This deserves a moment's consideration. As it regards the 
complaint against them of being dead. — As models of sublime and 
exquisite taste they are no more dead, than the Corinthian column 
that adorns the architecture ; or the Gothic forms that give dignity 
and gravity to the constructions of art and genius. — It is an utter 
misapprehension. In any literary sense, and for the best use, to 
be made of them, they live — they can never grow old — they are of 
all time. Like truth itself, they are as fresh to day, as at the begin- 



14 

ning and will be as vivid to the end ; and for the preservation of 
the oracles of God, the original languages exist in the most con- 
servative form. It is well for the purity of the record, that the 
Hebrew and Greek, have so long ceased to be the familiar tongue 
of any people. There they live, as thousands of years ago, un- 
corrupted and unchanged ; every word and syllable in its place — 
the faithful heralds of the truth of God, and not only so, but we 
learn also from these records of the past, the operations of the 
mind — the habits and the characteristic peculiarities of the nations, 
to whom these venerable forms were the mother tongue. 

And the thought has meaning too, that in our moral constitu- 
tion, we have a proneness to venerate what comes to us from the 
honored past. — How devotedly we prize some fragment from a 
far back ancestry ; and all the more enthusiastically, if clothed in 
the garb of an ancient language. Is there then, no profit in learning 
the very idiom in which God spake to Moses and the prophets — 
in which Abraham pleaded for infatuated Sodom— In which the 
holy law, amid the thunders of Sinai, fell on the ear of the awe 
stricken hosts of His people — and the milder tones of that, in which 
"as sweet as Angels use the Gospel whispers peace." 

And moreover, our own English, owes too much, to these 
pure and primitive fountains, to allow any sound and thorough 
scholar, a dispensation from their careful study. We justly boast 
of our copious and pure tongue, but we should bear in memory, 
that many of its most fruitful roots, and comprehensive combina- 
tions, as well as minute modifications of thought, we have taken 
from the Greek and Latin : so that the full and perfect under- 
standing of the knowledge of these dead languages is not only 
useful, but almost indispensable. 

As an exercise, for the improvement of the memory and the 
understanding and for the refinement of the taste, these studies 
are worth all the time that is given to them. They lead our 
youth into fellowship with such minds as Homer and Plato 
and Demosthenes — and Cicero and Virgil ; — and by such inter- 
course the soul is elevated in its contemplations. Their immortal 
works will still quicken the spirits of the humblest — they find a 
chord in every human bosom — and this, because, true to nature's 
promptings, they touch the soul of man as man — they draw on no 



15 

artificial contrivances to get up an emotion, but go down to the 
depths of the sensibilities, and awaken deep and fervent feeling, 
by a kindred pulsation there. 

The rich stores of Grecian and Roman learning, like some 
splendid models in painting or sculpture, purify the taste and 
invigorate the intellect of the student. All languages, the rudest 
and the most polished, are a profitable study — they have such 
close affinity with thought and its diversified developements, that 
they present some of the most interesting and instructive aspects, 
for metaphysical and moral culture. The simple majesty of the 
Hebrew, the chastened richness of the Greek and the finished 
elegance of the Latin, afford some of the best means of improve- 
ment — and full scope for a practised discipline, that strengthens 
while it refines the intellectual powers. When our American 
youth, spend years in Italy, before the works of the great masters 
of painting and sculpture, there is no scruple felt, nor murmur 
heard at these pilgrimages, and for the good reason, that although 
the artists are gone, their works live to praise them and to quicken 
the emulation of the survivors. No copy will satisfy an ingenu- 
ous youth ; and may not science study the pure forms of language 
when they lie upon her shelves ; and may not piety hold com- 
munion with the very words of inspiration as they fell from the 
lips of prophecy — and learn the fulfilment from holy men who 
spake, as they were moved by the Spirit of God ! 

Should the scholar, never again open a classic, after his college 
course, the time and the study given, would have been well and 
wisely employed. 

Sometimes a prejudice has assailed another branch of education 
and decried the Mathematics, as if the laws of space and time — 
magnitude and numbers were dry and dull and of no value in the 
estimates of philosophy or active business. Here again, a little 
learning intoxicates, and deeper draughts restore us to right ap- 
prehensions and juster views, and we come to learn and rejoice to 
perceive that by the aid of that law which takes the measure of 
the circle — the square and the angle — man has " roamed among 
the stars, rode on the winged lightnings and swept the long track 
of day." And this is accomplished by a science, that forms a 
noble system of the soundest deductions — conducted by the closest 



16 

logic to the most certain results. So, of Astronomy. It was the 
animated song of the shepherd boy, afterwards made a king, — 
*'Tho heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament shew- 
eth his handy work."— and Astronomy tells us how this declara- 
tion is made ; and shall we not learn it of a science that puts a glass 
to the eye and the mind too — that enlarges the sphere of vision — 
discovers worlds before unseen and in all its revealings, proclaims 
the Wonder Working Maker, as " glorious in holiness and fearful 
in praises." Passing rapidly on, it does not require a pause to 
vindicate the claims of Chemistry, as it has so successfully opened 
its own way to favor, by shewing how much it influences the 
humblest and the highest of industrial pursuits, and how beau- 
tifully, it exhibits and illustrates some of the most splendid secrets 
in physical economy. 

The whole circle of the natural sciences, tends to confirm the 
revelations of the Scriptures; and demonstrate, that the Author of 
nature is the God of the Bible. Science, thus evinces its estab- 
lished connections with religion as an handmaid to serve, and not 
as an adversary to deride or contemn. She best maintains her 
own true dignity and place, when she sits at the feet of the only 
wise God, and meekly takes her lessons from His mouth. She 
will only bewilder with strange fire, unless she kindles her inspi- 
rations at the altar of truth. 

One great truth stands out in prominence, as the tribute of all 
sound philosophy. That the intelligence, skill and counsels, of 
the Infinite and Glorious Creator, may be clearly traced, and shine 
forth illustriously in the works of His power, in the worlds of 
matter, as of mind. 

As the serious student traces up creation through the laws im- 
pressed upon its matter and motions,. he is constrained to feel with 
the deeper conviction, that God alone has given energy to those 
laws as the Almighty cause of causes. He is the better prepared 
by his investigations, to unite with the sublime strains of the Bible 
and exclaim, — "He maketh the weight for the winds and weigh- 
eth the waters by measure. He maketh a decree for the rain : 
and a way for the lightning of the thunder." And furthermore, 
from the painful uncertainties of all philosophy he fmds repose in 
the scripture that Ho who said, "Let light be, and light was," 



17 

hath also, declared, " I am the light of the world, — and the life of 
men." And no one, should be better fitted, to sympathize with 
the devout Psalmist, than the deeply read Philosopher ; — and when 
he looks up to the mighty agency, that rules among the stars and 
holds every planet in its track, well it becomes him, bowed in 
spirit, at his own weakness, to cry, "Lord, what is man! that 
thou art mindful of him." With stronger reason does intellectual 
philosophy, claim the first consideration — in turning the mind upon 
its own powers ; and subjecting it to the discipline of reflection — 
self-control and deliberation. We readily perceive wherefore 
our physical energies should be tasked to improve them — as need- 
ful is it, and in like manner, to exercise and task, the faculties of 
the inner man. So that while educating youth for usefulness, we 
shall, the more happily, by this very training, better qualify them 
to understand their relations to God, — to appreciate the value of 
His favor and their obligations to secure it. 

The proprieties of this occasion will not allow, even a rapid 
sketch of all the elementary subjects that deserve a place, among 
the studies of a college. I may be excused, in a moment's refer- 
ence to that branch of education which regards the political rela- 
tions of every citizen, to the government of his country. 

We have been so signally favored by Providence, with free in- 
stitutions from the earliest period of our existence, that there is 
some danger of mistaking the nature of true liberty, and deprecia- 
ting our political blessings, because they are so common, and have 
been so long enjoyed. Freedom, independence and the rights of 
conscience, have been household words with us, from the begin- 
ning. The claim of the humblest to the protection of the law, and 
the duty of the highest, to be subject to its authority, are so well 
understood and acknowledged, that danger may grow, out of our 
security, and an undue confidence prevail that, these great prin- 
ciples, can suffer no injury and should awaken no carefulness. 
To guard against such delusions, in most of our colleges, the nature 
of our government, — true and just notions of liberty together with 
the causes that have heretofore hindered its progress, are matters, 
that engage the cares of the taught and the teacher. 

Lastly, and above all, it is felt, that education would come far 
short of its true purpose, did it fail to consider man in his high 



18 

moral relations to God and his fellow-men. They, who are in 
any way interested in the training of youth, should, of all men, 
acknowledge in their hearts, that it is not all of life to live — that 
the wealth and distinctions of this world, as the end of existence, 
are not worthy of the solicitudes of an immortal being, who is to 
meet God in judgment — and such direction should be given to 
science, as to keep the world of retribution before the mind in con- 
stant remembrance. 

These considerations address the Literary Institutions of our 
country with a peculiar emphasis. By the fundamental law of 
our constitution free, almost as the air they breathe — enjoying a 
government of their own choice, dependent on public opinion for 
its existence and powers, the conclusion is clear and sound, that 
unless this public will, be under the control of moral principles, 
based on religious obligation — the hopes of patriotism, are doomed 
to bitter disappointment. Hence, the evidences that authenticate, 
and the duties enjoined by the christian religion take their full 
share of the time and concern of our colleges. 

In this very brief review, we venture to think and to hope, that 
no considerate mind, can on reflection desire to abridge, either the 
course or the time, of college instruction. Four years, are surely 
not too long a tei'm for these various branches, nor are these, too 
many, for an American youth, who intends to meet the claims of 
his country, and the relations he holds to His Creator and the 
world. 

Sometimes a jealousy, towards the college, arises from a misap- 
prehension of the nature and tendencies of true science. It is 
never selfish or exclusive, but is of a noble and catholic spirit. 
Like the light from the sky that spreads far and wide, and falls 
alike, on the dwellings of the humble and the mighty. What it 
learns for itself — it learns for the race. Who has multiplied our 
daily comforts by the facilities of travel and the communication of 
intelligence. How, was the lightning taught to herald the news 
from all nations. And the wonders of the Daguerreotype would 
still have slept, if science, had not gone abroad in her power. 

The truth is, an educated man of upright purpose is a public 
blessing, put him where you may. Look into any retirement, 
remote on hill or valley where he dwells and you will perceive 



19 

the beneficent influences spreading from him in a tliousand lines. 
Agriculture, commerce and manufactures, all partake of it. The 
plowman and his team — the grain he scatters and the harvest 
he reaps — the cheerful blessings of his fireside and the range of 
his thoughts — all bear witness to the value of such a neighbor. 
His example and influence raise the standard of education and 
allay unworthy prejudices, that always shrink before the light of 
truth. 

And now, in conclusion, some just notions may be formed of 
the duties, that pertain to the Trustees and Faculty of a college. 
The nearer relations of the Faculty do, of course, induce closer 
bonds and more weighty responsibilities. They are brought into 
daily contact with the (youthful) mind, when most teachable and 
tenacious ; and when a complexion and tendency may be imparted 
to the character, that will probably enter into the dtcisions of the 
final judgment. 

How single minded and steadfast, should be the watchfulness? 
How faithful the discipline — how stern, if need be, and yet how 
kind ? How true to duty and to the best and highest interest of the 
soul ! 

These guardians are clothed with authority, that is essentially 
parental — because they are entrusted to mould the habits and to 
restrain the waywardness of the sons — to give the right direction 
to thought and intention — to raise the hopes to worthy objects, 
and to fill the future with elevating and ennobling prospects. 

The subject is magnified by the consideration that it embraces 
a class who, in most important bearings, are among the choicest 
treasures of their country — of whom, she may say, as the mother 
of the Gracchi, "These are my jewels, to be squared and polished 
as pillars for support and ornament." On them will very soon, de- 
volve, the richest political blessings that God ever bestowed, the 
constitution and government of a great and free people. 

And it should attemper the severities of criticism, to remember, 
that the depositories of these sacred trusts, are men of like passions 
and subject to the same infirmities, with those, they are appointed 
to care for. 

Honored by the choice of the Trustees of Rutgers College, the 
ceremonies of this occasion have now inducted me, into a partici- 



20 

pation in the duties and solicitudes, of a service, to which I have 
very imperfectly, for a few moments drawn your minds. It shall 
be my sincere endeavor, as God shall give me strength, to meet 
the just expectations of the Fathers and Guardians of this Institu- 
tion — And for its prosperity let me seek a place in your regards. 

If I may be allowed a single personal allusion, it is matter of 
grateful interest, that the revolutions of time, have conducted my 
footsteps, in the evening of life's pilgrimage to the cherished 
spot, where its morning began — and that notwithstanding the 
desolations of the past — and they are many and sad^ — a benignant 
Providence permits to day, the recognition of many living names, 
whose early recollections harmonize with my own. 
. And now may He, whose blessing maketh rich, grant His con- 
stant favor, that our College may continue to send forth a hallowed 
influence ; that its sons, may illustrate its fame, by the light of a 
pure and upright example. And that whatever else may betide 
them in a world of affliction and change, no one of them may be 
permitted, by the perversion of his powers, to impare the founda- 
tions of truth or give countenance to the enemies of virtue. 



H[s Ex. DANIEL HAINES, 

Governor of the State of New Jersey, ex officio. 
Hon. henry W. GREEN, 

Chief Justice of New Jersey, ex officio. 
LUCIUS Q. C. ELMER, 

Attorney General of New Jersey, ex officio. 
Hon. THEODORE FRELINGHUYSEN, 

President of the College. 

Rev. JAMES S. CANNON, D. D. 

Rev. WILHELMUS ELTINGE, D. D. 

Rev. PETER LABAUGH. 

CORNELIUS L. HARDENBERGH, Esq. 

Hon. JAMES PARKER. 

Rev. PHILIP MILLEDOLER, D. D. 

wm. van DEURSEN, M. D. 

ABRAHAM VAN NEST, Esq. 

JAMES B. ELMENDORF, M. D. 

Rev. JOHN KNOX, D. D. 

Hon. JAMES S. NEVIUS. 
B*^ Rev. JOHN GOSMAN, D. D. 

Rev. JAMES B. HARDENBERGH, D. D. 

WILLIAM B. CROSBY, Esq. 

Rev. JACOB SCHOONMAKER, D. D. 

Hon. PETER D. VROOM. 

Rev. CORNELIUS D. WESTBROOK, D. D 

Rev. JACOB J. JANEWAY, D. D. 

Rev. SAMUEL B. HOW, D. D. 

SEVERYN BRUYN, Esq. 

JOSEPH VARICK, Esq. 

Col. JAMES NEILSON. 
A. BRUYN HASBROUCK, LL. D. 

THOMAS G. TALMADGE, Esq. 

Rev. THOMAS DEWITT, D. D. 



22 



Gen. PIERRE VAN CORTLANDT. 
Hon. LITTLETON KIRKPATRICK. 
FERDINAND S. SCHENCK, M. D. 
Rev. ABRAHAM MESSLER, D. D. 
Rev. GUSTAVUS ABEEL, D. D. 

WARREN HARDENBERGH, Secretary to the Board. 

PETER SPADER, Esq. Treasurer. 



Hon. THEODORE FRELINGHUYSEN, LL. D., 

PRESIDENT OF THE COLLEGE, 
And Professor of Constitutional and International Law. 

Rev. SAMUEL A. VAN VRANKEN, D. D., 

Professor of the Evidences of Christianity. 

Rev. JAMES S. CANNON, D. D., 
Professor of Metaphysics, and the Philosophy of the Human Mind. 

THEODORE STRONG. LL. D., 
Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy. 

Rev. ALEXANDER M'CLELLAND, D. D., 
Professor of Oriental Languages and Literature. 

LEWIS C. BECK, M. D., 
Professor of Chemistry and Natural History. 

Rev. JOHN PROUDFIT, D. D., 

Professor of the Greek Language and Literature. 

Rev. C. R. V. ROMONDT, A. M., 
Professor of Modern Languages and Literature. 



The GRAMMAR SCHOOL, attached to the College, is under the 'm\- 
mediate inspection and control of the Trustees and Faculty of the College. 

Rev. WILLIAM J. THOMPSON, A. M., Rector. 



23 

ffiHIBffiiS ©IF ^ISSGnSSnOSTo 

The preliminary studies are substantially the same with those 
of the other Colleges of our country. For the Freshman Class a 
knowledge of Latin and Greek Grammar ; four books of Caesar's 
Commentaries ; six books of Virgil's yEneid ; Cicero's Orations 
against Cataline ; Sallust ; the Greek Gospels, and Acts of the 
Apostles ; Jacob's or Clark's Greek Reader and a knowledge of 
Arithmetic. 

Candidates for admission to an advanced standing, must sustain 
an examination in the studies to which the Class have attended 
since admission. 

Testimonials of good moral character are in all cases required, 
and a probation of three months before students are matriculated, 
during which time they are subject to all the College Siatutes. 

i©D[EINlT[l[FQ© ©©yi^gio 

The Scientific or Commercial Course, permits the Student to 
select such studies as have a direct bearing on his intended pursuits 
in life. Those who take this course, receive a certificate accord- 
ing to the branches of study which they pursue. Where the 
Student is a minor, the consent of his parent or guardian is neces- 
sary to his entering upon this Course. 

A valuable Philosophical and Chemical Apparatus, and a rare 
and extensive Mineralogical Cabinet, are among the aids to a 
thorough instruction in Natural Philosophy, Astronomy, Chem- 
istry, Geology and Mineralogy. 

The Libraries of the College and Literary Societies, embrace 
in the aggregate, about 15,000 volumes. Each student may have 
access to the College Library by paying the annual fees, amount- 
ing to one dollar. 

The Libraries of the Literary Societies are accessible to the 
members of tlie Societies, upon compliance with their respec- 
tive laws. 



24 

The Anniversary of the Alumni Association, is held on the 
day previous to the Commencement. 

The Anniversaries of the Literary Societies, on the afternoon 
of the same day. 

The Exhibition of the Junior Class on the evening of the same 
day. 

The Annual Commencement is on the Fourth Wednesday in 
July, when Academical Degrees are conferred. 

There are three Vacations during the year. 
The first, from the day after Commencement to the 1st of 
October. 

The second, from the 23d of December to the 3d of January. 
The third, from the 7th of April to the 1st of May. 

Tuition, $45 per annum, #45.00 #45.00 

Board, from $2.00 to $2.50 per week, . . 76.00 95.00 

Washing, from $4.00 to $8.00 per annum, . 4.00 8.00 

Fuel, from $4.00 to $8.00, 4.00 8.00 

Incidental Expenses, $5.00, 5.00 5.00 

$134.00 $161.00 

The Admission Fee is $5.00. 

The Faculty have power to determine the Boarding Houses at 
which Students may board ; and Students board only at such 
places and with such families as are approved by the Faculty. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



019 894 606 






